Any conversation about poutine, the quintessential Canadian dish, wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Montreal. This beautiful city, with its rich culinary culture, offers some of the most delicious and authentic poutine you will find anywhere. Let’s take a look at some of the top places to enjoy this delight in Montreal, as per Bon Appétit’s suggestions.
Feasting at La Banquise
La Banquise is undoubtedly one of the most popular spots to indulge in poutine in Montreal. Open 24 hours a day, this poutinerie is a haven for late-night food lovers. The cornerstone of their poutine is the fries, which are golden and crispy, cooked to perfection. What sets La Banquise’s poutine apart is the quality of their squeaky cheese curds and rich gravy. With over 30 different combinations of poutine on offer, the restaurant caters to a variety of palates and dietary requirements, with options for vegetarians and vegans alike.
The special touch of La Banquise
Setting themselves apart, La Banquise adds a special touch to their poutines with offerings such as La T-Rex, loaded with ground beef, pepperoni, bacon, and hot-dog sausage. For those vexed by the plethora of choices, the classic poutine, with its straightforward simplicity, never disappoints.
Dining at Ma Poule Mouillée
Adding to Montreal’s dynamic poutine scene is Ma Poule Mouillée. Newcomers might be drawn by the restaurant’s renowned Portuguese chicken, but locals know they serve a stellar poutine. Notably, they offer a unique fusion of classic poutine with succulent Portuguese chicken, chorizo, and a spicy piri-piri sauce, yielding a poutine that is as memorable as it is flavorful.
Fusion twist at Ma Poule Mouillée
This fusion twist perfectly demonstrates how traditional Canadian cuisine can mesh seamlessly with international flavours. The poutine at Ma Poule Mouillée takes this comfort dish to new culinary heights, ensuring that—though the restaurant is off the beaten path—food lovers will take notice.
Each of these restaurants serves up poutine that is not only delicious, but also deeply rooted in the history and culture of Montreal. These dishes showcase the city’s cosmopolitan character and its capacity for innovation in the culinary arts. Whether it’s your first time trying poutine or if it’s already one of your favorite dishes, these two restaurants offer a taste sensation that should not be missed.
Next time you’re in Montreal, and the craving hits, remember to check out La Banquise and Ma Poule Mouillée for a culinary adventure that respects tradition while creating new, flavorful memories. Stay curious, try new combinations, and let Montreal’s vibrant food scene transport you to a world of gastronomic delight that goes beyond the ordinary.

Kate Robinson is a culinary writer and food critic with a deep passion for gastronomy and a keen palate that appreciates flavors from around the world. At 31 years old, Kate’s background is as rich and diverse as her taste in food. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts from the Culinary Institute of America, she has worked in various roles within the food industry, from a line cook in bustling New York City restaurants to a food stylist for culinary magazines.
Her transition into writing was driven by a desire to share her love for food and cooking with a wider audience. Now, as a prominent contributor to a leading online food and gastronomy news platform, Kate explores a wide array of topics, including restaurant reviews, recipe development, and the latest trends in food and dining.
Kate’s writing is distinguished by her ability to transport readers to the heart of the dining experience, whether she’s describing the subtle notes of a rare wine or the vibrant atmosphere of a street food market in Southeast Asia. Her reviews are honest and insightful, offering readers a comprehensive guide to the world’s culinary delights.
Beyond reviews, Kate is passionate about sustainable eating practices and often features articles on farm-to-table dining, organic farming, and ethical food sourcing. Her features on international cuisines and culinary traditions aim not only to educate her audience but also to inspire them to explore new flavors and cooking techniques.
Kate’s engaging writing style, combined with her extensive knowledge of the culinary world, has made her a favorite among food lovers. Whether her readers are experienced chefs or home cooks looking to broaden their culinary horizons, Kate provides valuable insights and inspiration to elevate their food experiences.
In addition to her writing, Kate regularly hosts online cooking classes and workshops, where she shares her expertise and enthusiasm for cooking with participants eager to learn. Her commitment to exploring and celebrating the world of food has established her as a respected voice in the gastronomy category, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the art and culture of food.